There are all different types of fences and reasons people or businesses need a fence. There is a broad range of fence styles and options to choose from. The fence industry in the United States generates roughly $51 billion in revenue, and there are approximately 99,939 businesses in the United States that sell fencing products or offer fence installation services.
Why is it such a big business? Because fencing is an almost universal need. Regardless of whether you are trying to protect a business, garden, swimming pool or personal property, the best way to do that is to install a fence.
Fences can be strictly utilitarian. Chain link fences and other wire fences will protect the property and come in a variety of different heights. You?ll also need a fence gate, which you can also get in various heights. Gates typically come equipped with a latch, but you?ll have to add a lock if you want the gate secured closed.
There are also a wide variety of decorative fences made from wood, composite, and metal. The cost of each type varies based on the style, location, and size needed. According to one survey, a nice looking aluminum fence will increase curb appeal providing an estimated 65% return on your investment.
According to zoning experts, 80% to 90% of applications to install a fence are for privacy fences. These are typically wood fences, at least, 5-feet high that obscure the view onto the property. These types of fences are referred to as privacy fences because they provide people privacy to be in their yards without everyone seeing what they are doing.
Although fence installation is not particularly hard and many home owners take it on as a DIY project, professional installers can get it done in a fraction of the time and with none of the aggravation. They already have all the equipment and tools needed to do it right the first time, and they have a systematic process in place to get the fence up quickly and efficiently.
Many of homeowners want their fence to match their deck or patio. If they are installed at the same time, this can be done by just using the same basic material for each. If they are not installed together, wood decks and fences can be stained the same color.
Although there are all different types of fences, each type has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, chain link fences aren?t as beautiful as other types of fences, but they are less expensive and efficient in securing a property. If not cared for, chain link fences can rust.
While wood fences won?t rust, they can rot if not taken care of. Wood fences are more expensive and their installation is more involved than chain link fences, but they can provide privacy and are more visually appealing. Decorative metal fences are often beautifully made with intricate patterns. However, they do not offer privacy.
All fences need to be maintained, so they last. How a fence is maintained will depend on the material it is made from. However, generally speaking, this means either waterproofing the fence or keeping it stained or painted. The cost of the fence will depend on the material, height, and length. Obviously, a long fence will cost more than a short fence and a tall fence will cost more than a low fence.
When deciding on the type of fence, you should get, take a minute to consider what the function of the fence will be, who will see the fence, and what you want it to look like. Residential fencing needs are typically different than business needs, and residential gates are going to serve a different function than commercial gates. Answering these three questions will quickly narrow down your fencing options.
